The facelifted Lexus RC coupé (which made its public debut at the Paris Motor Show in October 2018) has arrived in South Africa, with the range seemingly trimmed to a single derivative at launch.

While the pre-facelift line-up included an entry-level RC300 EX variant as well as the flagship F Sport derivative, the refreshed model is offered in the latter guise only. Well, until the recently revealed, V8-powered RC F (and special Track Edition) arrives towards the middle of 2019, that is.

So, back to the updated RC350 F Sport. This model is priced from R939 100 (some R32 300 up on the outgoing version) and includes a model-specific grille mesh pattern as well as “numerous other custom exterior and interior items”, including fresh 19-inch alloys (shod in 235/40 tyres up front and 265/35 rubber at the rear).

The naturally aspirated 3,5-litre V6 petrol engine has been retained, although it now generates slightly altered outputs of 232 kW (down one unit) and 380 N.m (up two units), again sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The obligatory dash to 100 km/h takes a claimed 6,3 seconds, while top speed comes in at 230 km/h.

Toyota’s luxury arm says enhancements have been made to the RC’s aerodynamics, tyres, suspension, engine response and steering.

Ryan has spent most of his career in online media, writing about everything from sport to politics and other forms of crime. But his true passion – reignited by a 1971 Austin Mini Mk3 still tucked lifeless in a dark corner of his garage – is of the automotive variety.